South Africa has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for eligible Indian passport holders, enabling travellers to apply for travel authorisation entirely online with applications intended to be processed within 24 to 48 hours. The initiative is aimed at simplifying travel for short-term leisure and work visits of up to 90 days by replacing traditional paperwork with a fully digital process.
Under the new system, travellers can complete the application online by creating an account on the official South African Department of Home Affairs ETA portal, uploading the required documents, verifying their identity through smartphone-based biometrics and paying the applicable fee. The ETA is digitally linked to the traveller’s passport, supports multiple entries during its validity period and allows applicants to track their application status online. The facility is currently available for arrivals through O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport and Lanseria International Airport, with expansion to additional entry points planned.
Commenting on the development, Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head MEISEA, South African Tourism, said the ETA would make travel planning faster and more convenient for eligible Indian visitors while encouraging them to explore the country’s wildlife, landscapes, cities and cultural attractions. South African Tourism has also launched a dedicated digital campaign across its social media platforms to promote the new initiative.
In Kolkata, the streamlined visa process is expected to benefit leisure travellers, honeymooners and business visitors from eastern India, where demand for international travel has been steadily increasing. Travel agencies in Kolkata believe the faster digital authorisation could boost interest in South African holiday packages, particularly among travellers seeking wildlife safaris, scenic road trips and premium experiential tourism, while reducing the time and effort traditionally associated with overseas visa applications.
